The Latino Pathways For Higher Education

The LPI

About

The Latino Pathways Initiative for Higher Education (LPI) is a HASS Grant funded program that aims to build pathways for Gallatin Valley's English Language Learner (ELL) Latino students, their teachers, and their families to improve educational outcomes. The LPI approaches these outcomes through service in K-12 ELL-classified student research, teacher professional development, and familial support for education. One goal of LPI is to empower Latino families in Gallatin County in their pursuit of better educational opportunities, a goal that aligns with Montana State University’s fundamental vision of transforming lives and communities in the people’s interest. Another goal is to support teachers regarding policy and pedagogy for making learning accessible to non or limited English speaking students. Finally, through our Academia Familia Latino parent certificate program, educational literacy and opportunities surrounding post-secondary education for themselves or their children are provided to assist in educational planning. 

LPI Photos

Meet the Team

	Rebecca Turk Principal Investigator The Center for Bilingual and Multicultural Education rebecca.turk@montana.edu Focus: English Language Learner pedagogy, language identity, language motivation, and language mindsets
	Dr. Bridget Kevane Co-Principal Investigator Latino Studies bkevane@montana.edu Focus: Latino experiences, historical context, and Latino issues in non-gateway states
	Isabela Romero Graduate Research Assistant Mental Health Counseling i.romeronavarro@student.montana.edu Focus: Mental health counseling, immigration trauma, minority student issues I am dedicated to building a close-knit community by connecting with diverse members in our town, understanding their needs, and embracing their unique stories to create an inclusive community. Being originally from Peru, a collectivistic culture, I deeply understand the importance of meaningful relationships and community to promote well-being. Through my work with the Latino Pathways Initiative as a Graduate Research Assistant, I advocate for diversity and inclusion by supporting efforts to bridge access for the Latino community to education and better understand their needs within the school system.